UNMC’s Accessibility Push: A Glimpse into the Future of Inclusive Digital Experiences
Users at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) and Nebraska Medicine are beginning to see subtle but significant changes within their Microsoft 365 applications. These aren’t arbitrary updates; they represent a proactive step towards a more inclusive digital environment, driven by federal accessibility standards and a commitment to equitable access for all.
The Rising Tide of Digital Accessibility
UNMC’s initiative aligns with a broader movement towards digital accessibility, spurred by Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. This federal mandate requires state and local governments – including institutions like UNMC – to ensure their digital content is accessible to individuals with disabilities. The deadline for compliance is April 24th.
But this isn’t simply about legal compliance. It’s about recognizing that accessibility benefits everyone. Clearer document structures, accurate image descriptions, and readily available captions improve usability for all users, regardless of ability.
What’s Changing Now: A Closer Look
The immediate changes focus on core Microsoft 365 tools. The Accessibility Checker, now running automatically in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, provides recommendations for improving document accessibility – things like proper heading structures, alternative text for images, and clear link descriptions. These are presented as suggestions, empowering users to produce informed choices.
Microsoft Teams is similarly getting a boost. Live captions are now available for meetings and calls, and recordings will automatically include captions. These features remove barriers for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, and also benefit non-native speakers or anyone in a noisy environment.
SharePoint updates emphasize modern page layouts and built-in styles, promoting consistency and compatibility with assistive technologies like screen readers.
Beyond Compliance: The Future of Accessible Technology
UNMC’s current efforts are just the beginning. The future of digital accessibility will likely see even more sophisticated and integrated solutions. We can anticipate:
- AI-Powered Accessibility: Artificial intelligence will play a growing role in automating accessibility tasks. Imagine AI automatically generating alt text for images, transcribing audio in real-time with greater accuracy, and identifying accessibility issues proactively.
- Personalized Accessibility Experiences: Technology will adapt to individual user needs and preferences. Users might be able to customize font sizes, color contrasts, and even the way content is presented based on their specific requirements.
- Accessibility as a Core Design Principle: Instead of being an afterthought, accessibility will be integrated into the design process from the outset. This “accessibility-first” approach will lead to more intuitive and inclusive user experiences.
- Increased Focus on Cognitive Accessibility: Beyond visual and auditory impairments, there’s a growing awareness of the need to address cognitive disabilities. This includes simplifying language, reducing distractions, and providing clear and concise instructions.
Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the power of simple habits. Using built-in heading styles instead of manually formatting text can dramatically improve document accessibility.
The Impact on Healthcare and Beyond
For institutions like Nebraska Medicine, accessibility isn’t just a matter of compliance; it’s a patient care imperative. Accessible digital materials ensure that patients can understand their medical information, participate in telehealth appointments, and manage their health effectively. This is particularly crucial for individuals with disabilities or limited English proficiency.
The principles of digital accessibility extend far beyond healthcare. Any organization that provides digital services – from educational institutions to financial institutions – has a responsibility to ensure those services are accessible to everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if I’m not sure how to address the Accessibility Checker’s recommendations?
A: Contact the UNMC IT ServiceDesk at 402-559-7700 for assistance.
Q: Will these changes slow down my operate?
A: The changes are designed to be seamless and minimally disruptive. The Accessibility Checker runs in the background, and many of the Teams features are automatically enabled.
Q: Are these changes only for staff and students?
A: No, Nebraska Medicine users will also experience changes to common IT systems.
Q: Where can I learn more about digital accessibility best practices?
A: Explore resources from the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI).
Did you grasp? Approximately 26% of adults in the United States have some type of disability, according to the CDC.
This commitment to accessibility at UNMC and Nebraska Medicine sets a positive example for other organizations. By embracing inclusive design principles and leveraging emerging technologies, we can create a digital world that is truly accessible to all.
Have thoughts on these changes? Share your feedback in the comments below!
